Safety regulators have expanded their investigation into engine fires in the Chevrolet Cruze to include 2012 model year cars as well as 2011-year cars.

The expanded preliminary investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about 370,000 cars, up from the initial 177,000, GM spokesman Alan Adler told the Reuters news agency.

A preliminary investigation is the first step in a process that could lead to a recall if regulators determine that a manufacturer needs to address a safety issue.

GM is investigating a number of fires, but has not disclosed how many; there have been no reports of accidents or injuries.

The NHTSA said last month that it had opened the investigation after receiving two complaints of engine fires in 2011 Cruzes while the cars were on the road. Both cars were destroyed, according to the complaints.

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